Buying and Storing Insulin

In the United States, Regular and NPH insulin types are available without a prescription (as are syringes). All other types of insulin require a prescription for purchase and can be bought at most any pharmacy.

Many insurance plans offer a 3-month mail order service you can purchase a 3 month supply of insulin with. This may amount to a time and financial savings regarding your insulin purchases.

Unopened insulin needs to be stored in the refrigerator. Once opened, Regular and NPH insulin last approximately two weeks outside of refrigeration (check drug insert for specifics) and the other insulin types last approximately one month outside of refrigeration. In that time, insulin must not get too hot or cold.

Never store insulin in the freezer, direct sunlight, or in the glove compartment of a car.

Check the expiration date before using, and don’t use any insulin beyond its expiration date.

Examine the bottle closely to make sure the insulin looks normal before you draw the insulin into the syringe.

There are products available that help people store insulin while traveling in hot or cold climates. For example, Frio cooling cases keep insulin at the same temperature while out in severe hot or cold conditions. People with diabetes often use these to make sure insulin stays at a safe temperature.